Greg's book is still available! Autographed copies of Greg Louganis' book, Breaking the Surface, are still available (while supplies last) for $15. To get your autographed book, contact Carol at ccransto@admhn.org or call 303 779 9696.

A good time was had by all. Keynote speaker Greg Louganis, Olympic gold-medalist and author, spoke at the Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Benefit Luncheon on Thursday, May 22, 2008 at the Inverness Hotel & Conference Center. Awards were presented by Colorado First Lady Jeannie Ritter.  The Emcee for the event was  9News Morning Sports Anchor Susie Wargin. We did it for a great cause. Proceeds from the event benefit uninsured and underinsured individuals in need of mental health and substance abuse treatment services. View photos of the event on BlackTie! Listen to the KOA interview with Greg Louganis. Greg personally greeted guests and signed copies of his first book Breaking the Surface: The Greg Louganis Story (which was available for a donation) at the 11 a.m. reception before the luncheon.  Later, Greg Louganis spoke to the 300-member audience with warmth and generosity about his struggles with HIV, coming out as a gay man, depression, domestic violence, dyslexia and substance abuse. Colorado First Lady Jeannie Ritter presented the Pat Echtermeyer Community Hero Award to Carol Villa. The 2008 ADMHN Distinguished Service Award was given to Colorado State Representative Joe Rice. There was background jazz by the Penepelian Trio. A good time was had by all, and each person left with a Gerbera-daisy vase. Sponsor a future event. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, including our Raising Spirits winetasting and auction event, contact Carolyn Moershel, development director, at 303 793 9601.

 Luncheon Highlights

Colorado First Lady Jeannie Ritter congratulates Carol Villa, a tireless advocate of mental health services, as she accepts the Pat Echtermeyer Community Hero Award. The award is given annually to an individual who has made significant, long-term contributions to eliminate the stigma of mental illness, as well as to increase access to treatment through education, advocacy and support. Pat Echtermeyer, the award*s namesake, stands at right. Villa was recognized during Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network's 7th Annual Mental Health Benefit Luncheon last month at Inverness Hotel & Conference Center. View more photos at BlackTie!		Greg Louganis signs copies of his book, Breaking the Surface, at Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network's 7th Annual Mental Health Benefit Luncheon at Inverness Hotel & Conference Center. Louganis was the keynote speaker and shared his struggles with depression and substance abuse. Greg Louganis' book is available for sale for $18, including postage and handling. Proceeds benefit underinsured and uninsured individuals seeking mental health and substance abuse treatment services. To get your autographed book, contact Carol at ccransto@admhn.org or call 303 779 9696.